Dietetics (M.S.)

Program Coordinator/Contact

Kendra Kattelmann, Distinguished Professor
Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences
Wagner Hall 425, Box 2275A
605-688-5161

Program Information

Dietetics prepares Registered Dietitian Nutritionists to practice dietetics at an advanced level and/or pursue doctoral study. The program seeks to develop research skills, stimulate independent thought, and provide up-to-date knowledge in foods, nutrition, and food service/business management. This program prepares individuals to integrate and apply the principles ranging from the biomedical sciences, human behavior, and management to design, and to lead effective food, nutrition, health and wellness programs in a variety of settings. This online program will be a degree tailored for credentialed, practicing dietetics professionals who seek to enhance their knowledge in a specific area of dietetics practice or to retool for new career opportunities in dietetics practice.

Course Delivery Format

The program consists of lecture, laboratory, and experiential learning opportunities.

Student Support and Engagement Opportunities

The Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences aims to provide premier academic programs and high-quality services to students.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option A - Thesis	36 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	36 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	36 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

NUTR 734 - Research Methods in Dietetics Credits: 3
NUTR 735 - Current Trends in Dietetics Practices Credits: 3
NUTR 760 - Vitamins and Minerals in Human Nutrition Credits: 3
STAT 541 - Statistical Methods II Credits: 3

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

HNS 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (6 credits required)
Electives Credits: 18

Option B - Research/Design Paper

HNS 788 - Master’s Research Problems/Projects Credits: 1-7 (3 credits required)
Electives Credits: 21

Option C - Coursework Only

Requires a comprehensive written exam
Electives Credits: 24

Total Required Credits: 36 (Option A, B, & C)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: required score of 550 paper-based, 79-80 Internet-based
IELTS: 6.0

Students must be credentialed as a Registered Dietitian by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, submitting a copy of a current RD or RDN card as documentation.

General Requirements

The student’s option and schedule of courses must be approved by his/her faculty advisor and graduate committee.

See Master’s Degree Requirements .